The common denominator between clarity, purity and joy is the transcendence of our egos. We can only find objective clarity by going beyond our limited intelligence and following the Creator’s wisdom contained in His Torah. In the Torah, God outlines for His children what leads to purity and what leads to the opposite. Joy also comes from transcending the ego and being grateful to God for His love and blessings.

After having experienced the beauty of the first three biblical holidays of the year, Chanukah reminds us to become their teachings; to live with clarity, to radiate purity and to embody joy. Actualizing these states empowers us to transcend the obstacles of this finite world and unite with the Infinite.

God created every one of us with the ability to attain transcendence; that is why He put us here. Dig deeper in Torah (clarity); reach further in observance (purity); call out in grateful prayer (joy) and with God’s help you will succeed.

Yaakov Weiland has an MSW from Fordham School of Social Service and lives in New York City.

About the Author:Yaakov Weiland has an MSW from Fordham School of Social Service and lives in New York City. Visit his blog at yaakovweiland.blogspot.com.

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During the High Holidays we increase the number of our prayers. We acknowledge God’s kingship, beseech Him to forgive us and ask Him to grant us a new year filled with blessings. How do we make these prayers sincere and effective?

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